Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars

Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars combine two classic desserts into one irresistible treat. With a buttery sugar cookie crust and a creamy cheesecake filling, these bars are rich, sweet, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party or a cozy night in, these bars deliver the comforting taste of sugar cookies with the indulgence of cheesecake.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

sugar cookie dough (homemade or store-bought)cream cheesegranulated sugarsour creamvanilla extracteggs

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Press the sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.

Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.

Add the granulated sugar and mix until well combined.

Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until incorporated—do not overmix.

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the baked sugar cookie crust and smooth the top.

Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly.

Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Once chilled, lift the bars from the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 16 bars.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40–45 minutes total
Cooling and chilling time: 4–5 hours
Total time: 5 hours (including chilling)

Variations

Add crushed Oreos or sprinkles into the cheesecake batter for extra texture and flavor.

Top the bars with fresh berries or fruit preserves after chilling.

Swirl in a bit of jam or chocolate before baking for a marbled effect.

Use flavored sugar cookie dough for a fun twist (e.g., lemon or chocolate).

storage/reheating

Store Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Do not microwave to reheat—serve chilled or allow to come to room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough?

Yes, homemade sugar cookie dough works just as well as store-bought.

Why did my cheesecake crack?

Overbaking or sudden temperature changes can cause cracking. Let it cool slowly and avoid overmixing the batter.

Do I need to use a water bath?

No, these bars bake well without a water bath, thanks to the smaller pan and even thickness.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free sugar cookie dough and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I add toppings?

Absolutely—try whipped cream, fruit, chocolate drizzle, or sprinkles.

Should these bars be served cold?

Yes, they taste best when fully chilled.

How long do they last?

Up to 5 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use a larger pan or two 9×13 pans and adjust baking time accordingly.

Are they suitable for kids?

Definitely—kids love the cookie base and creamy top.

What type of cream cheese is best?

Use full-fat block cream cheese for the creamiest texture.

Conclusion

Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars are the perfect mash-up dessert for cookie and cheesecake lovers alike. With their sweet, tender crust and rich filling, they’re sure to satisfy any sweet tooth and become a go-to favorite for gatherings or indulgent moments at home.

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